tag

The Qatari Businessmen Association (QBA) held a meeting with a delegation from Syria as a follow-up to QBA’s meeting with Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa, who was in Qatar for the recently concluded Doha Forum 2025.The delegation was headed by Dr Hazem al-Sharaa, vice-president of the Syrian Supreme Council for Economic Development. He was accompanied by Talal al-Hilali, director general of Syria’s Investment Authority, and Safwat Raslan, director general of the Syrian Development Fund.Sunday’s meeting comes as a continuation of QBA’s meeting last week with President al-Sharaa, aimed at discussing potential investment opportunities in Syria, even as a number of QBA members have already launched concrete economic projects there in the fields of energy, electricity, and real estate.The Syrian delegation was received by QBA chairman His Excellency Sheikh Faisal bin Qassim al-Thani, in the presence of board member Sheikh Nawaf bin Nasser al-Thani, and QBA members Sheikh Mansour bin Jassim al-Thani, Khaled al-Mannai, Mohammed Moataz al-Khayyat, Ramez al-Khayyat, Nabil Abu Issa, Faisal al-Mana, Yousuf al-Mahmoud, and Ihsan al-Khaimi, as well as representatives of Abdulrahman Al Mana Companies, Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad al-Thani, Mekdam Holding Group, and other member companies, in addition to QBA general manager Sarah Abdallah.At the beginning of the meeting, Dr Hazem al-Sharaa stated that Qatar was among the first countries to invest in Syria, following the directives of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani and the Qatari Government, to place Syria on the international investment map by strengthening international relations and attracting major companies to participate in the reconstruction of Syria.Al-Sharaa noted that the Supreme Council for Economic Development aims to achieve economic stability in the country, revitalise and develop the economy, and establish a comprehensive economic map covering the entire Syrian geography.He said this will be achieved through full supervision of several economic authorities, organisations, and institutions operating within the framework of the state’s economic plan. He also confirmed that Syria will launch a completely new currency in the market at the beginning of the new year, in line with the requirements of the current phase.The council, chaired by the President of the Republic, is responsible for approving general strategies and plans related to investment. Its membership includes the ministers of economy and industry, energy, finance, tourism, communications and information technology, public works and housing, and agriculture, in addition to the head of the General Authority for Land and Sea Ports, among others. Several economic entities are affiliated with the council, most notably the Syrian Investment Authority, the Sovereign Fund, and the Development Fund.During the meeting, al-Sharaa focused on current economic projects in Syria that contribute to reconstruction and the development of infrastructure and vital sectors, with particular emphasis on energy, transport, tourism, real estate, health, education, and key industrial sectors such as pharmaceuticals and construction materials.He also praised the significant investments by Qatari and Saudi companies in the development of power generation stations, as well as the signing of memoranda of understanding to modernise the electricity sector in general. This is in addition to the development of Damascus International Airport and the Damascus Metro project, in cooperation with Qatari and Turkish companies.For his part, al-Hilali spoke about the development of the legislative framework to attract and guarantee direct investments through the adoption of the best international laws, allowing foreign investors to own 100% of their projects.He explained that, in this new phase, the state has adopted measures to fully exempt investors from taxes in the health sector and agricultural projects related to food security, in addition to full tax exemptions for factories that export more than 50% of their production.Meanwhile, Sheikh Faisal stated that Syria represents an investment bank of projects and golden opportunities for investors. He stressed the need to develop joint Qatari–Syrian projects through the establishment of institutions specialised across various sectors, such as industrial, health, tourism, and real estate, among others, given that the state’s objective is to create job opportunities and stimulate economic growth. He emphasised that the private sector in both countries can play a prominent role in this direction.Qatari businessmen affirmed that Syria is currently witnessing a major economic transformation across various sectors, noting that most of them have already begun working on productive projects in Syria. They also announced that a delegation of Qatari businessmen will visit Syria at the invitation of the Supreme Council for Development, following an official invitation from President al-Sharaa to Damascus to explore investment opportunities. 

The Qatari Businessmen Association (QBA) held a meeting with the Turkish Industry and Business Association (TUSIAD) to discuss commercial and economic relations.During the meeting, which reviewed key areas of co-operation between the Qatari and Turkish private sectors, TUSAID invited QBA to visit Istanbul to explore joint investment opportunities.Wednesday’s meeting was attended by QBA chairman His Excellency Sheikh Faisal bin Qassim al-Thani and members Khalid al-Mannai, Faisal al-Mana, Maqbool Habeeb Khalfan, and Yousef Ibrahim al-Mahmoud, as well as QBA general manager Sarah Abdallah and several executives from member companies.The Turkish delegation was headed by Cagatay Ozdoruk, board member of TUSIAD, which represents around 4,500 companies, accounting for 85% of Turkiye’s non-oil exports.Sheikh Faisal noted that the past years have witnessed rapid growth in bilateral co-operation between the Turkish business community and many QBA members through joint investments in both Turkiye and Qatar, as well as collaboration on regional and international projects.He emphasised that the exchange of high-level visits by leaders, officials, and business delegations reflects the mutual commitment to building strategic partnerships that serve the interests of both nations and open new horizons for the private sector.Sheikh Faisal highlighted that Turkiye is an important trade and investment partner for Qatar and for QBA members. He said Qatari businessmen invest in various sectors in Turkiye, including tourism, real estate development, residential and commercial complexes, banking, retail, and hospitality.He noted that hundreds of Turkish companies operate in Qatar, many of which are in partnership with QBA members, across sectors such as construction, infrastructure, industry, services, and logistics. He reaffirmed that Turkiye remains a key investment destination for Qatari investors, with expanding Qatari portfolios in real estate, food industries, manufacturing, and tourism.Ozdoruk said TUSIAD is the largest and most influential business organisation in Turkiye, representing major industrial and financial companies and family businesses. The association includes approximately 4,500 member companies; it's headquartered in Istanbul, with branches across Turkiye and abroad, including in the US, France, Germany, and Belgium.He invited the QBA to visit Istanbul to learn about potential investment opportunities, especially given the strong financing options provided by institutions operating under TUSIAD.Ozdoruk also added that there are many promising investment opportunities in the Qatari market that Turkish businessmen can tap into, noting that some members are preparing to open new outlets in the ready-to-wear retail sector, given the many incentives and advantages that Qatar offers to attract investments. 

The Qatari Businessmen Association (QBA) is keen to explore investment opportunities in Baghdad, it was announced Tuesday.This came after QBA deputy chairman Sheikh Dr Khalid bin Thani al-Thani hosted a luncheon in honour of Atheer Dawood al-Ghurairi, Iraq’s Minister of Trade, who is visiting the country along with his accompanying delegation.They were received by QBA chairman His Excellency Sheikh Faisal bin Qassim al-Thani, in the presence of QBA members, during the meeting, which reviewed areas of cooperation in the commercial, investment, and industrial fields, in addition to addressing several topics of mutual interest.The luncheon was attended by QBA members Khalid al-Mannai, Salah al-Jaidah, Nabil Abu Issa, Abdul Salam Issa Abu Issa, Maqbool Habib Khalfan, and Yousef Ibrahim al-Mahmoud, along with QBA general manager Sarah Abdallah.The meeting, held at the majlis of Sheikh Dr Khalid, focused on strengthening bilateral cooperation, particularly in the commercial, economic, and investment sectors. Discussions also highlighted the role of the private sector in developing trade exchange and mutual and joint investments.Sheikh Faisal underscored that the close relations between Qatar and Iraq represent a distinguished model in the region. He emphasised that the increased exchange of visits between the two sides reflects a shared commitment to enhancing economic partnerships between Doha and Baghdad.Sheikh Dr Khalid affirmed the strength of Qatar-Iraq ties, describing them as a model of constructive cooperation. He noted that the leadership of both countries is keen to strengthen strategic ties across various sectors, especially in the economic fields.He believes such strategic partnerships contribute to achieving the visions of both nations through the effective engagement of the private sector, which serves as a cornerstone of successful economic development.Sheikh Dr Khalid said Iraq represents an important economic and commercial market for Qatar. He said this was clearly reflected during the recent visit of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani to Iraq, which underscored the commitment to strengthening co-operation in implementing strategic projects across vital sectors, including energy, manufacturing industries, food security, education, logistics services, real estate, and other areas of mutual economic benefit.The minister invited the QBA to visit Baghdad and explore the potential investment opportunities across various sectors. Al-Ghurairi said his delegation held several meetings with key entities like Qatar Free Zones Authority (QFZ) and Hamad Port.He stressed Iraq’s keenness to enhance economic integration with Qatar and referred to a study prepared by the Ministry of Trade on diversifying import sources from the GCC countries.The study outlines practical measures to expand the base of trading partners, diversify logistics gateways, and reduce transport costs by leveraging the advanced services available at Qatari ports.He said Iraq and Qatar are discussing an agreement for the protection and promotion of investments, which would strengthen the investment environment and open broader opportunities for joint ventures in the sectors of industry, services, trade, and infrastructure.The minister lauded Qatari investments in Iraq, noting that the Iraqi side is keen to increase Qatari private sector investments in Iraqi cities, where numerous opportunities are available across various sectors. 

Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa has invited the Qatari Businessmen Association (QBA) to explore investment opportunities across various economic sectors in Damascus.The invitation came after al-Sharaa received a delegation of QBA officials and members in Doha on the sidelines of his participation in the recently concluded Doha Forum 2025.The delegation included QBA chairman His Excellency Sheikh Faisal bin Qassim al-Thani; board members Sheikh Hamad bin Faisal al-Thani and Sheikh Nawaf bin Nasser al-Thani; members Sheikh Mansour bin Jassim al-Thani, Mohammed Moataz al-Khayaat, Hamad bin Mohammed al-Mana, Khaled al-Mannai, Faisal al-Mana, Abdulrahman al-Mana, and Ihsan al-Khiyami, as well as QBA general manager Sarah Abdallah.Also in attendance was Asaad al-Shibani, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates of the Syrian Arab Republic.The discussions focused on bilateral co-operation between Syria and Qatar in the commercial and economic fields, and on the role of the private sector in strengthening and expanding ties, especially in light of Syria’s extensive reconstruction phase.Al-Sharaa affirmed Syria's strong ties with Qatar, reflecting the depth of the historical relationship between both countries, “a relationship that can be translated into tangible investment partnerships.”He said Syria is currently reforming its investment laws and providing incentives for foreign investors, noting that the country is now open to major international companies, many of which started investing in energy, gas, and electricity sectors. The president further highlighted that Qatari companies are already active in these fields and also hold investments at Damascus International Airport.Al-Sharaa encouraged Qatari businessmen to invest in Syria and enter into projects and ventures across various economic sectors, calling for the establishment of strategic partnerships between Qatari and Syrian companies.Sheikh Faisal emphasised QBA’s appreciation for the visit and the mutual commitment to strengthening bilateral co-operation, saying the strong historical and social ties between Qatar and Syria provide a solid foundation for expanding economic partnerships.He said Syria is currently undergoing a phase that offers distinctive investment opportunities in several sectors, and expressed QBA’s eagerness to transform these opportunities into practical projects and sustainable partnerships that serve the interests of both countries.Sheikh Hamad said the “positive relations” between Doha and Damascus will encourage Qatari businessmen to invest in Syria, affirming that the current period is highly suitable for investments in industry, infrastructure, and other productive sectors.Sheikh Nawaf noted that QBA will organise a visit to Damascus to review potential investment opportunities and discuss ways to enhance co-operation with relevant authorities and Syrian businessmen. He also highlighted the importance of developing investment laws to further motivate investors to enter the Syrian market. 

A Qatari economic delegation visited the city of Bordeaux in southwest France as part of efforts to strengthen bilateral relations between Qatar and France and to expand economic ties with various French regions.The delegation was led by His Excellency Chairman of the Qatar Chamber (QC) Sheikh Khalifa bin Jassim bin Mohamed Al-Thani, and His Excellency Board Member of the Qatari Businessmen Association (QBA) Sheikh Nawaf bin Nasser Al-Thani. The visit was organized at the invitation of Sheikh Ali bin Jassim Al Thani, Qatar's Ambassador to France, and in cooperation with the Qatari-French Economic Circle (Cadran). The visit included tours of key industrial sites and major companies, such as the headquarters of Thales Group and Olicrom, a French company specializing in smart color-changing materials, as well as visits to several research centers in Bordeaux and its surrounding areas. During the trip, the Qatar Chamber and the Bordeaux Gironde Chamber of Commerce and Industry signed a cooperation agreement to enhance economic relations and open new opportunities for collaboration. The agreement was signed by Sheikh Khalifa bin Jassim bin Mohammed Al Thani and Patrick Seguin, President of the Bordeaux Chamber, in the presence of Qatar's Ambassador to France. The Qatari delegation also participated in a business roundtable to discuss cooperation opportunities between Qatari and French companies, introduce Bordeaux, the Gironde region, and their leading economic sectors, and present Qatar's business climate and the investment opportunities available in both countries. Sheikh Khalifa bin Jassim bin Mohammed Al-Thani emphasized the close relationship between the two friendly countries, describing France as a trusted strategic partner for Qatar. He noted that cooperation between the two countries goes beyond traditional diplomacy to reflect a partnership based on trust, shared vision, and achievements.He highlighted the significant growth of Qatari investments in France in diverse sectors including real estate, sports, hospitality, and innovation, and pointed out the increasing interest of French companies in entering the Qatari market. He added that bilateral trade exceeded 1.3 billion Euros last year. He also praised Bordeaux as a global center for advanced industries such as aerospace, defense, high technology, and logistics, fields that align with Qatar's priorities for building a diversified, knowledge-based, and sustainable economy. Patrick Seguin highlighted the importance of this meeting as an important step toward strengthening business cooperation between Qatar and France. His Excellency the Ambassador said that the State of Qatar and the Bordeaux region share complementary strengths, with Bordeaux's expertise in advanced technologies, environmentally friendly industries, and key sectors such as health, security, and tourism combining with Qatar's strategic location, modern infrastructure, and ambitious economic diversification program to create many promising opportunities for collaboration. He explained that this visit provides a valuable opportunity to explore these possibilities and begin successful commercial partnerships between the two sides. His Excellency Sheikh Nawaf bin Nasser Al-Thani praised the strength of Qatar-France relations and the desire of both countries to further develop them. He noted that the frequent official visits by leaders and private sector representatives from both countries demonstrate their commitment to advancing bilateral relations to a model level. He also highlighted Qatar's major progress in legislation, logistics, and infrastructure, along with its significant investment incentives and geographic proximity to large regional markets. He affirmed that the Qatari Businessmen Association is ready to explore all available investment opportunities in both Qatar and France. The association aims, through a group of investors and major companies, to strengthen the role of the private sector and establish genuine partnerships with the French private sector in both countries. This effort seeks to diversify joint investments in key economic sectors, expand economic, technical, and scientific cooperation, and facilitate the exchange of information between Qatar and France.

The Qatari Businessmen Association (QBA) has signed a memorandum of understanding with the German Near and Middle East Association (NUMOV) to promote investment opportunities in both countries.The MoU which was signed by HE Sheikh Faisal bin Qassim al-Thani, chairman of QBA, and Joann Erich Wilms, chairman of NUMOV aims to strengthen economic relations between the two countries by promoting trade, industry, investment, and technical co-operation among the members of both organisations.Through this agreement, signed in the presence of German ambassador Hans-Udo Muzel, both sides will work to identify suitable investment opportunities in Germany and Qatar and present them to affiliated companies.Emphasising the importance of co-operating with Germany as a trusted and strategic partner for Qatar; Sheikh Faisal said German companies have played a vital role in supporting Qatar's industrial development and technological modernisation.Highlighting that the Qatari private sector holds various investments in Germany across sectors such as tourism, retail, and technology; he said the QBA members have established several partnerships with German companies in the local market across diverse productive economic sectors."There are promising opportunities for Qatari German co-operation in numerous sectors, including renewable energy, sustainable infrastructure, logistics, education, smart technologies, pharmaceuticals, and more," according to him.The German envoy emphasised the strong economic relations between Doha and Berlin, highlighting the significant role of trade and investment.He said Qatar is Germany’s third-largest trading partner in the Gulf region and that Doha through the Qatar Investment Authority and private investors holds significant stakes in major German companies such as Volkswagen, RWE, Deutsche Bank, and CureVac, among others.The ambassador also stressed the close co-operation between German companies and businesses affiliated with QBA members in sectors such as luxury automobiles, Siemens, technology, and tourism.Silvio Konrad, head of the German delegation, stated that Germany enjoys a long-standing and robust relationship with Qatar. He highlighted that TUV NORD Group has numerous partners in the Middle East, including in Qatar, which opens the door to expanded partnerships particularly in the technology sector.Pointing out that the German delegation includes representatives from leading companies in the fields of information technology, artificial intelligence, communications, energy, and resources; he said these companies are eager to explore new opportunities in Qatar and the region and to strengthen economic ties with the Qatari private sector.Apart from Sheikh Faisal, Qatar's side included board members Sheikh Nawaf bin Nasser al-Thani and Saud al-Mana; and QBA members Sheikh Mansour bin Jassim al-Thani, Salah al-Jaidah, Khalid al-Mannai, Nasser al-Haidar, Maqbool Khalfan, Hakan Ozmir, and Ihsan al-Khaimi. Also Sheikh Turki bin Faisal al-Thani, managing director of Al Jazi Real Estate Investment, attended the meeting as well as Sarah Abdullah, QBA deputy general manager.